Article May 25, 1981 Issue

On trial

NED R. HERZSTAM

It is comforting to know that God's love is ever present and always active in our human experience. Regardless of the trials we encounter, God's perfect child—our everlasting true self—is never separated from Him. Even though the way seems difficult and the problems insoluble, we can remain calm and hopeful, for our difficulties are opportunities for God to show His omnipotence.

"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy."^{I Pet. 4:12, 13.} Isn't this biblical authority for remaining faithful, no matter how turbulent the condition seems to be? Mrs. Eddy corroborates the statement, writing: "Through great tribulation we enter the kingdom. Trials are proofs of God's care."^{Science and Health, p. 66.}

Many of us may be unable to observe suffering without being overcome with pity or sometimes condemnation. Then we often find ourselves looking for the cause of suffering instead of seeing it as unreal and as an opportunity to glorify God. God, good, is All-in-all. Therefore, right where a problem seems to be, there is really an opportunity for good to appear.

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